China's Commerce Ministry announced on Thursday that it will implement restrictions on the export of aviation and aerospace-related equipment and technology starting from July 1. The ministry stated that this decision is aimed at safeguarding national security and interests, as well as fulfilling international obligations related to non-proliferation.
The new rules will require export licenses for designated items, and the announcement was made in collaboration with China's General Administration of Customs and the Central Military Commission's equipment development department.
The export controls will cover a range of products, including aircraft and aerospace engines, structural parts, engine manufacturing equipment, software, and technology. Additionally, tools, molds, fixtures, and processing equipment used in the production of materials like 'superplastic' bonded with titanium, aluminum, and their alloys will also be subject to these restrictions.
Both China and the United States have taken steps to limit exports of products, technology, and equipment deemed crucial for national security. China has previously imposed sanctions on certain U.S. aerospace and defense manufacturers in response to arms sales to Taiwan, a territory it claims as its own.
The Commerce Ministry's notice highlighted that the controls will extend to technologies involved in the development, manufacturing, and utilization of the equipment, encompassing design drawings, process specifications, simulation data, and more.
While the full impact of these export restrictions remains uncertain, China currently exports engine parts and other aircraft components. Despite advancements in developing its own jet engines, the country still relies on foreign suppliers for key components of aircraft manufactured using domestic technology.
